What is bank help desk fraud?

Bank help desk fraud involves scammers posing as employees of your bank and asking for access to your bank account. They may pressure you to hand over sensitive information, such as your debit card and PIN or login information. Or they may ask you to install software that allows them to take over your computer, allowing them to withdraw money from your account.

What are fake agents?

Fake agents pretend to be police or other authorities. They call or send you a message indicating that you are going to be a victim of a crime such as a fraud or possible burglary. They often ask for money or to verify your information for a so-called investigation. Often they also want to come to your home for an investigation. In doing so, they then take money and jewelry with them under the premise that they will put it in a safe or appraise the jewelry.

What can you do?

1. Stay calm: If you receive an unexpected call from someone asking for personal information or money, always be wary. Banks and the police never ask for such information over the phone.
2. Don't give out details: Never share your PIN, password or other personal information with anyone who calls you, even if they claim to be from your bank or the police.
3. Hang up and call back yourself: If in doubt, hang up and call your bank or police phone number yourself to verify that the call was legitimate.
4. Check web addresses: Never click on suspicious links in e-mails or messages. Always check the web address to make sure you are on the official website of your bank or another trusted entity.
5. Use secure software: Health make sure your computer and smartphone are protected with up-to-date antivirus software and use strong, unique passwords.
6. Ask for identification: Always ask for identification if someone claims to be from the police. Even then, do you still not trust it? Call 0900-8844 and ask for verification. If they are real cops this will quickly become clear. If they are fake officers you can make a report immediately!

By staying alert and following the tips above, you can protect yourself from digital scammers. Never trust just anyone who approaches you online and always take the time to verify things. Your safety is the most important thing!

Would you like to learn even more about how to protect yourself from digital crime, or cover other topics? We as the municipality of Geldrop-Mierlo invite our inoners to participate in the Unlock campaign, which is aimed at increasing digital resilience. In the coming months, new modules related to different themes will appear, with which you can strengthen your knowledge and skills in the field of online safety.

The third module, available now, focuses on hacking. This module teaches you how antivirus software works and why your passwords could use some attention. With practical tips and tools, we'll help you recognize suspicious situations and how to keep the back door locked from hackers.

Stay safe online and take advantage of this opportunity to increase your digital resilience. Keep an eye on our communication channels for the new topics and modules. Together we are working towards a safer digital environment!

Search for: www.digitale-weerbaarheid.nl and start the course!